Marked Police Cruisers in Woodstock Feature #ivegotyourback911 Decals

The message serves as a reminder of our need to be vigilant and aware of not only our own mental health but the mental health of those around us.

WOODSTOCK - Watch out for new decals on the back of all marked police cruisers in the City of Woodstock.

The decals state #ivegotyourback911 and will be placed on the back windows during police week. The message serves as a reminder of our need to be vigilant and aware of not only our own mental health but the mental health of those around us.

Police Chief Daryl Longworth says members of the Woodstock Police Service Wellness Committee wanted to bring the campaign to Woodstock and he quickly agreed.

“I fully support this campaign. I view this as just one more tool in our mental health and wellness toolbox. My hope is that each time our members observe the decals displayed in our police vehicles, whether in the parking lot as they come and go from work, or at a scene where they are dealing with a difficult circumstance, it will be a visible reminder that we support them, that we have their back and that if they ask for help, we will be there to help them. It’s also a visible reminder to everyone that we have to be aware of our mental and emotional health as well as the health of those around us and that we are all in this together.”

In 2014, a group of paramedics launched an online campaign entitled to “I’ve Got Your Back 911” to draw attention to the increase and rise of mental health issues within the First Responder Community. Through heavy and dedicated online presence and use of the hashtag #ivegotyourback911, the campaign gained worldwide recognition as an online space for First Responders to share ideas, resources and photos of support for one another.

Wear a cloth mask during the protest if you plan on attending and wear ear plugs or nose protectors. Also, after the protest you should remove your clothes and wash them immediately, along with disinfecting any materials you carried.

By extending these orders, it will allow the employers of frontline care providers to be given the flexibility to respond to COVID-19. It will also protect those who are vulnerable, and the public, as Ontario reopens slowly and safely.

"I believe the members of the Woodstock Police Service do an excellent job protecting and engaging with our community. But I also recognize we are not perfect. We can do better and my commitment to you is that we will do better."